On July 15, 2024, a coordinated and devastating attack rocked the Bannu cantonment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The attack featured a few suicide bombers and heavy firing, resulting in numerous casualties. The Jaish Fursan-e-Muhammad, a faction of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) led by Hafiz Gul Bahadur, has claimed responsibility for this incident.
The attack commenced early in the morning when the assailants attempted to break through the cantonment’s security walls with an explosive-laden vehicle. The attackers, armed with sophisticated weapons and wearing suicide vests, began their attack by detonating a car at a checkpoint. The big explosion caused panic, allowing the remaining attackers to move forward.
Jaish Fursan-e-Muhammad, has claimed responsibility for ongoing suicide attack on Bannu Cantonment; attack initiated by a bomber who detonated his explosive laden vehicle at main entrance, other bombers infiltrated premises.
— Bahot | باہوٹ (@bahot_baluch) July 15, 2024
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Eyewitnesses reported hearing several loud explosions, followed by intense firing. The assailants took advantage of the initial confusion and engaged in a heated shootout with security officers stationed at the cantonment. Despite the Pakistani Army’s efforts to stop the attackers, the incident is said to have resulted in significant damage and casualties.
Two suicide bombers of Jaish Al Fursan Muhammad group have attacked Kohati Gate, #Bannu Cant with VBIED followed by heavy firing. Bannu Cant is 80 Kms from #Afghanistan border. The attack shows the reach of Pashtun groups and their adamancy to liberate Khyber from #Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/KXDX9AeTKJ
— Nepal Correspondence (@NepCorres) July 15, 2024
According to initial reports, at least 12 Pakistani soldiers have been killed and several more are injured. However, a report by News 24 Digital states that around 8 Civilians in the cantonment’s proximity are also said to have lost their lives, the precise number of deaths is yet unknown. The Pakistani Army responded swiftly, deploying a gunship aircraft to give aerial support and engage the attackers from above.
As the firefight raged, the military imposed a lockdown in the region, restricting internet and phone services to prevent the assailants from coordinating additional attacks or fleeing. The current operation aimed to secure the region and safeguard the safety of both military troops and civilians.
BANNU ATTACK
— Conflict Watch PSF (@AmRaadPSF) July 15, 2024
3 TTP militants have been killed after the militants from the Jeesh Fursan Muhammad group, affiliated with the TTP's Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, launched a daring attack on Bannu Cantt early this morning, starting with a massive blast likely caused by a… pic.twitter.com/wyhxr0tXVr
Jaish Fursan-e-Muhammad, an affiliate of the TTP’s Hafiz Gul Bahadur group, has claimed responsibility for the attack. As per the reports, this faction has been recognized for its militant activity in the region, frequently targeting security forces and government buildings. The statement underscores the group’s continued conflict with the Pakistani military.
The attack on Bannu Cantonment underlines Pakistan’s ongoing security concerns, notably in the volatile Khyber Pakhtunkhwa area. Political leaders and international observers are said to have condemned the act, urging intensified efforts to combat terrorism and maintain regional stability.
As per several social media updates, 3 attackers have been killed and around 60 people have been reported as injured. The story is developing. Details will be updated once obtained and confirmed.
